Head of Operations

Introduction Our client is a leading player in the renewable energy sector. They are seeking an experienced Head of Operations & Maintenance (O&M) to lead the O&M function across a portfolio of utility‑scale renewable assets (primarily solar PV; exposure to BESS and hybrid systems advantageous). You will be accountable for asset performance, safety, contractual compliance, customer satisfaction, and the commercial results of the O&M business. Duties & Responsibilities Strategy & Leadership Set and execute the O&M strategy for South Africa in alignment with group objectives. Build, lead and mentor a high‑performing multidisciplinary O&M team (engineering, site operations, HSE, scheduling, spares, reporting). Define departmental KPIs and drive a culture of ownership, continuous improvement and safety. Asset Performance & Maintenance Own plant availability, performance ratio (PR), and yield targets across the fleet. Oversee preventive, corrective and predictive maintenance programmes, leveraging CMMS and condition‑based monitoring. Ensure robust spares management, tooling, and workshop practices; optimise turnaround times and mean time to repair (MTTR). Lead root cause analyses (RCA) and implement sustainable corrective actions. Health, Safety, Environment & Quality (HSEQ) Ensure compliance with the OHS Act, Construction Regulations, Electrical Machinery Regulations and all site‑specific permits. Enforce Permit‑to‑Work, LOTO, and Safe Systems of Work; champion zero‑harm culture. Coordinate audits, inspections, incident investigations and close‑out actions. Commercial & Contractual Management Manage O&M budgets, cost models and forecasts; deliver P&L targets. Administer O&M contracts, SLAs and LTSAs, including OEM warranties and performance guarantees; manage liquidated damages/bonuses per contracts. Oversee procurement and subcontractor agreements in line with company policies and B‑BBEE requirements. Stakeholder, Client & Regulatory Interface Act as senior point of contact for asset owners and lenders; provide high‑quality reporting and performance reviews. Coordinate with EPC, engineering and grid teams for seamless handover, warranty/defect resolution, upgrades and repowering. Interface with Eskom/municipalities and grid operators as required; ensure compliance with grid codes and relevant standards. Monitoring, Analytics & Reporting Oversee SCADA/monitoring systems, data integrity and analytics; track KPIs and energy yield variances. Prepare monthly/quarterly performance reports and board‑level presentations; drive data‑informed decision‑making. Standardise processes, work instructions and documentation across the fleet. Emergency Response & Business Continuity Lead major incident response, escalation and stakeholder communication. Maintain contingency plans for severe weather, grid events and supply‑chain disruptions. Desired Experience & Qualification Bachelor’s degree in Electrical/Mechanical/Mechatronics/Industrial Engineering (or related discipline). 8–12+ years’ experience in power/renewables operations & maintenance, with at least 4–6 years in leadership of multi‑site utility‑scale assets. Demonstrated track record improving availability/PR, reducing downtime and delivering contractual KPIs. Strong understanding of PV plant systems (modules, inverters, MV/HV infrastructure, protection, transformers, substations); BESS/hybrid experience advantageous. Hands‑on experience with CMMS, SCADA and performance analytics; advanced Excel/Power BI (or similar) skills. Proven contract, vendor and subcontractor management; warranty claim and OEM interface experience. Solid HSEQ knowledge (e.g., SAMTRAC/NEBOSH advantageous); HV/LV switching authorisation an advantage. Familiarity with South African regulatory and grid environments; stakeholder engagement with utilities and municipalities. Excellent communication and client‑facing skills; ability to influence at executive and site level. Language: Professional proficiency in English (written and spoken). Additional South African languages (e.g., Afrikaans) advantageous. Other: Valid driver’s licence and willingness to travel Key Competencies Strategic leadership and people development Commercial acumen and P&L ownership Results‑driven with strong analytical and problem‑solving ability Risk management and decision‑making under pressure Stakeholder management and negotiation Process orientation and continuous improvement mindset #J-18808-Ljbffr